Criminal Justice Technology in the News

Law Enforcement News

Drones: New Tool for National City Police, Fire Departments
The San Diego Union-Tribune, (07/16/2018), David Hernandez
The police and fire departments in National City, Calif., have three new drones to aid public safety efforts. Officers and firefighters deployed one of the drones for the first time in June to provide an aerial view of a brush fire. Officials anticipate using the technology for crime scenes, search-and-rescue missions and SWAT incidents.
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Mesa Police Department Introduces Its First Therapy Dog
Arizona Republic, (07/10/2018), Angela Forburger
The Mesa Police Department in Arizona is training the first dog in its new Therapy Canine Program, which was created to help support victims of abuse. The 16-week-old English Labrador will go through various types of training and certifications before being exposed to the public. The dog's primary role will be to help provide emotional support to victims by helping them feel more relaxed and open when discussing their experience with investigators.
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Massachusetts House Votes to Boost Funding for Police Training
NBC10, (07/18/2018), Eli Rosenberg and Karen Hensel
The Massachusetts House of Representatives has voted to increase funding for police training. The legislation calls for up to $10 million in annual revenue, funded by a $2 fee on all car rentals. The money would go toward increased SWAT and mental health training, forensics and interview interrogation.
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Virginia Launches Regional Cyber Workshop Series
August Free Press, (07/19/2018)
Virginia is holding a Regional Cyber Security Workshop Series on building partnerships with local governments. The series began in July and will include seven meetings across the state before concluding at the end of August. The workshops spread awareness of Virginia's cyber security programs, build relationships between state and local information technology officials to facilitate information sharing, and enhance collaboration on regional and statewide cyber initiatives.
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Police to Receive New Set of Body Armor Through State Grant
The State Journal, (07/20/2018), David Hamilton
The Frankfort Police Department will use a $19,500 state grant from the Kentucky Office of Homeland Security for new body armor. Homeland Security's Law Enforcement Protection Program provides grants for items such as duty weapons, ammunition and body cameras for law enforcement agencies.
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MA Firefighters Issued Ballistic Vests, Helmets
MetroWest Daily News, (07/22/2018), Jonathan Phelps
Firefighter/paramedics in Hopkinton, Mass., are now equipped with ballistic-resistant helmets and body armor. During hostile situations such as an active shooter and mass casualty events, the protective gear allows firefighters/paramedics into the "warm zone" alongside law enforcement to quickly provide life-saving first aid to victims. The warm zone is an area with no direct threat, but a potential for harm still exists.
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Corrections News

Task Force Aims to Reduce Number of Women in Illinois Prisons
WTTW, (07/18/2018), Paul Caine
A new task force wants to cut by 50 percent the number of women incarcerated in Illinois. The panel comprises 100 women, including former inmates, corrections officials, judges and prosecutors.
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MD Prisons Start Using Electronic Tablets for Inmate Education
WMDC, (07/18/2018), Dani Bozzini
Under a pilot program, the Maryland Department of Corrections will distribute electronic tablets to some inmates so they can study and take the GED test. Officials hope adding tablets will help reduce recidivism and improve computer technology skills. Only programs for learning will be available on the tablets.
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